The letters ER, for Elizabeth Regina, have been replaced with the crest of the Sussex Martletts but PC Gee is having none of it.

The Uckfield-based bobby said: "I joined Sussex Police to serve our sovereign lady the Queen and I am outraged."

PC Gee, 29, vowed: "I, for one, will continueto wear my traditional badge, upholding and maintaining our ancient traditions so rightly admired by so many people."

The badge is gradually being switched throughout the force as helmets and caps wear out.

Aforce spokesman said: "The original badge design was based on the Suffolk police crest and we wanted something more in keeping with Sussex.

"It still carries a reference to the Queen in the form of a crown at the top."

The spokesman said PC Gee would not be facing any disciplinary action.

"We expect the change will take at least ten years as caps and helmets wear out. We hope PC Gee will reconsider when his needs changing."

But the officer, who has served Sussex for more than eight years, is not for turning.

He added: "I make no bones about it, I'm fiercely loyal and patriotic.

"I've got a Union Flag at home and I hold traditional values very dearly.

"A constable is a citizen locally appointed and whose authority is derived from the Crown.

"Removing ER is wrong and to replace it with the Martletts is a disgrace."

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